Support group thread — 6 month update

Dr.LipidDallas said:

Anxiety increase on mental health: counterintuitive, but losing weight rapidly triggered anxiety for me.

Thank you for spelling out the reasoning rather than just the conclusion. I will report back once I have actually tried it.

From the other side of the consultation, briefly.

Before/after narrative for mental health — one year in:

Before (271 lbs): Winded climbing stairs, chronic back pain, pre-diabetic, on 3 medications, dreaded mirrors, avoided photos, social anxiety about my weight.

After (191 lbs): Run 3 miles regularly, pain-free, A1C normal, down to 1 medication, bought a swimsuit for the first time in a decade, actually enjoy being photographed.

Total weight lost: 71 lbs. Total life gained: immeasurable. This isn't just about weight — it's about reclaiming your identity.

Dr.CardioMD said:

Mood changes on mental health: I want to be transparent — I went through a rough patch emotionally around month 3.

When to call your doctor about mental health side effects — a reference I wish I'd had:

Call immediately:

• Severe abdominal pain (could be pancreatitis)
• Vision changes (thyroid concern)
• Lump in neck (thyroid nodule)
• Severe vomiting/can't keep fluids down for 24h+

Schedule an appointment:

• Persistent nausea beyond 4 weeks
• Significant hair loss
• Mood changes or depression
• Gallbladder symptoms (RUQ pain after eating)

ZaraB_AL said:

The mental-health dimension is under-measured in the trial literature and the reports here are consistent enough to take seriously.

Body image adjustment with mental health: I've lost 58 lbs but when I look in the mirror, I still see my old self sometimes. "Phantom fat" is a real phenomenon.

My therapist specializes in body image issues with weight loss patients. She says it can take 12-18 months for your brain's body map to update. In the meantime: take progress photos (your eyes lie but cameras don't), try on old clothes, and be patient with yourself.

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